Student Wellness Investment Program
Student Wellness Investment Program
Also known as the Children and Youth Behavioral Health Initiative (CYBHI) — a State of California program helping schools fund the wellness support students need, at no cost to families.
In 2021, the State of California launched the Children and Youth Behavioral Health Initiative (CYBHI) to make it easier for students to access wellness and behavioral health support during the school day. Beginning the 2026–27 school year, HBCSD is implementing this initiative under the name the Student Wellness Investment Program.
This program allows our district to partner with Medi-Cal and private insurance providers to receive reimbursement for wellness services we already offer — such as counseling, social-emotional learning, and mental health resources. The result is more sustainable funding and the ability to grow these supports over time, without passing any cost on to families.
How It Works
To access state funding through this program, HBCSD is asking families to provide their child's health insurance or Medi-Cal information. Here is what families should know:
- Complete the Parent Consent Form sent to you via ParentSquare from HBCSD Student Services.
- Provide your child's insurance or Medi-Cal information. This allows HBCSD to bill for reimbursement; you will never receive a bill.
- Going forward, this information will be collected annually as part of the data confirmation process and at the time of new student enrollment.
Services this Program Supports
Funding secured through this program helps HBCSD provide the following services to all students:
- Crisis response resources: Providing timely support and intervention for students experiencing emotional or behavioral challenges.
- Staff training: Training for educators and school staff to better support students.
These services are available to all students. Any support beyond what is universally provided will only be offered with the parents' or guardians' permission.
Important assurances for families
We understand families may have questions or concerns. Here is what you can count on:
- No cost to families: No copays, deductibles, or out-of-pocket expenses.
- No impact to insurance: Your benefits and coverage remain completely unchanged.
- Confidentiality protected: All information is safeguarded under both FERPA and HIPAA.
- No effect on IEP services: This program does not replace or interfere with special education.
We understand that families may hold different beliefs, experiences, or cultural perspectives about mental health. Participation in this program is always your choice. Our goal is to respect your values and privacy while providing meaningful resources to support every student's success.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is this program required?
No. Participation is completely voluntary. You may choose whether or not to provide your child's insurance information, and your decision will not affect your child's access to school or general classroom instruction.
What if my child doesn't have health insurance?
That's okay. Families without insurance or Medi-Cal are still welcome to participate. Simply indicate this on the Parent Consent Form and your child will continue to have access to school-based wellness supports.
Will my family be billed for any services?
No. There are absolutely no costs to families. HBCSD bills insurance providers directly for reimbursement. You will never receive a bill, copay, or invoice of any kind.
Will my child be pulled from class for counseling or other services?
Any individual services beyond what is provided to all students will only happen with your knowledge and permission. You will always be informed before any additional support is provided to your child.
How is my child's information protected?
All information you provide is strictly confidential and protected under both FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act) and HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act). It is used solely to access state funding and support student wellness.
Will this affect my child's IEP or special education services?
No. This program has no effect on special education services. IEPs and related services remain completely separate and will not be changed, reduced, or impacted in any way.
What if I have cultural or personal concerns about mental health services?
We deeply respect that families hold a range of values, beliefs, and perspectives when it comes to mental health. Participation is always your choice, and declining will not affect your child's standing at school. We encourage you to reach out to Student Services with any questions or concerns.
Where do I complete the Parent Consent Form?
The form was sent directly to you via ParentSquare from HBCSD Student Services. If you did not receive it or need a new copy, please contact us at studentservices@hbcsd.us.
Contact Us
Have questions or need support? Our Student Services team is here to help.